Wanderlust Wednesday: Fiji

Sunnies at the ready! A bright Fijian honeymoon is the last word in luxury.

Sunnies at the ready! A bright Fijian honeymoon is the last word in luxury.

Where it is: A three-hour flight from Auckland.

Honeymooner type: Those who crave an effortless escape to a tropical paradise. Situated so close to home, Fiji is well-equipped to host Kiwi visitors.

What to do: Spend some time under water; Fiji is home to some of the most spectacular and accessible dives in the Pacific, punctuated with vibrant reefs and channels. Float to the surface to experience the destination’s epic surfing – standout spots include Cloudbreak, Swimming Pools and Frigate Pass – then take solace beneath a palm tree to bring yourself back to earth.

When you’re beached out, explore inland on your island of choice to delve into villages, gardens and rivers, and be sure to head to the mainland to experience the unexpected buzz that is Suva, Fiji’s biggest urban centre. With a large student population, Suva is home to a range of lively bars, as well as restaurants, museums and markets.

Where to stay: Located just 25 kilometres from Nadi and nestled on the edge of a twinkling lagoon, boutique accommodation Likuliku Lagoon Resort can be reached by fast catamaran, private speedboat, seaplane or helicopter. It boasts a suite of Fiji’s first and only overwater bures, intimate onsite restaurant Fijiana and a range of onsite aquatic activities including swimming and snorkelling. Tatadra Spa is set in a serene spot on the edge of the forest – couple and solo treatments are available, drawing upon local Fijian produce for an authentic shot of indulgence.

When to go: April, May, October and November hit a sweet spot between the breeze and chill that can be experienced from June to September, and the intense humidity that descends from December to March